Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) USA Residential Fellowships 2026

Description

Are you a scholar in the social sciences or related fields looking to join a prestigious fellowship at one of the world’s leading academic institutions? The School of Social Science at the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS), Princeton is now accepting applications for its 2026–2027 Residential Fellowships, inviting scholars globally to participate in a cutting-edge academic theme or pursue independent research.

Degree Level

Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) USA Residential Fellowships 2026 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study (IAS).

Available Subjects

What is the 2026–27 Fellowship Theme?

Theme: Emerging Forces in Global Political Economy

This year’s theme investigates how contemporary societies are navigating a rapidly shifting global economic order, shaped by rising protectionism, state-driven industrial policies, and the consolidation of corporate power.

Led by Benjamin Braun, Assistant Professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science and Visiting Professor at IAS (2026–2028), the seminar will examine questions such as:

1. How are giant multinational firms like Apple or BYD bypassing traditional market structures through vertical and horizontal integration?
2. What are the implications of private equity and venture capital overtaking public stock markets in global finance?
3. How does China’s industrial strategy challenge the traditional consumer-driven market model?
4. Can democracy evolve to function in a world increasingly governed by non-market mechanisms and corporate power?

The fellowship invites diverse and critical perspectives, encouraging applications from scholars across social and human sciences, regardless of discipline.

Benefits

1. Full residential fellowship at IAS in Princeton for the 2026–27 academic year.
2. Access to a world-renowned intellectual community.
3. Participation in interdisciplinary seminars, conferences, and collaborative opportunities.
4. Select memberships are supported by the Alfred Landecker Foundation and other philanthropic organizations (no separate application needed).

Eligible Nationalities

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

The Residential Fellowship is open to both junior and senior scholars in the social sciences and related fields. Applicants may propose:

1. A project relevant to the 2026–27 theme.
2. Independent research not directly aligned with the theme.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Strong academic background in social sciences or related disciplines.
2. Demonstrated scholarly excellence and publication record.
3. Ability to commit to a full academic year in residence at IAS in Princeton, New Jersey.

Application Procedure

Application Deadline and How to Apply

Deadline: October 15, 2025

To apply, visit the official application portal:

https://www.ias.edu/sss/sss-fellowships

Required materials typically include:

1. A detailed research proposal.
2. Curriculum vitae (CV).
3. Letters of recommendation.
4. Statement of interest aligned with the theme (if applicable).

Why Apply to IAS?

The Institute for Advanced Study offers a uniquely stimulating academic environment. Located in Princeton, New Jersey, it has hosted many of the world’s most distinguished scholars including Albert Einstein. IAS is renowned for providing researchers the freedom to pursue their own intellectual agendas without teaching or administrative responsibilities.

By joining the School of Social Science Fellowship, you’ll become part of a global cohort of visionary thinkers working to understand and shape the forces defining our world.